Mid-West hospitals ban smoking on grounds

A complete ban on smoking in hospitals and on adjoining grounds in the Mid-West comes into force this Thursday.

The Mid-Western Regional Hospital, St John’s Hospital, the Regional Maternity, Nenagh General, Ennis General, and Croom Orthopaedic will adhere to the ban.

A spokesperson said: “It will no longer be possible to smoke in any of the hospital grounds; for example, entrances, doorways, walkways, internal roads, bus shelters, car parks, cars, and bicycle shelters.

“The introduction of this new policy is also in line with the Mid-Western Regional Hospital’s designation as one of the eight regional cancer centres in Ireland.

“The smoking ban will apply to all staff, patients, visitors, contractors, and anyone who enters the hospital buildings or grounds.” The spokesperson said: “It will ensure a healthier, safer, and cleaner environment for all and better health outcomes for patients and staff.”

To mark the commencement of the smoking ban, a ‘Clearing the Air’ garden will be placed in the centre of the main reception area of the Mid-Western Regional Hospital in Dooradoyle.

All patients are being informed of the policy in advance of their admission and, when admitted, patients who smoke will be offered free nicotine replacement therapy.

Fearghal Grimes, chief executive of St John’s Hospital, said: “Initially, people may find the change challenging but this initiative will have a positive long-term benefit and deserves support.”